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Alberta accepting applications for Local Food Council

Minister Oneil Carlier and Associate Minister of Health Brandy Payne announce Local Food Council recruitment with industry partners at a Calgary urban farm.Government of Alberta photo

EDMONTON — The provincial government is accepting applications for the first ever Local Food Council in Alberta.

Applications opened up on Tuesday, and will close on July 12. The council will provide recommendations on provincial policies, programs, pilot projects and initiatives to support the continued growth and sustainability of the local food sector, according to a news release.

The council is one of the steps in the Supporting Alberta’s Local food sector Act, which was passed in the legislature on May 30.

“Our government is stepping up to show support for this industry and the people who put food on our table,” said Oneil Carlier, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, in a statement. “The Supporting Alberta’s Local Food Sector Act and our new Local Food Council will give a voice to this growing industry by helping it find new markets, create new jobs and further diversify the provincial economy.”

The council will include small producers and processors from across Alberta, along with those with academic and specialized knowledge. The council would report to the minister within one year.

Topics to be discussed include challenges for local food producers, increasing access and consumer awareness and risk-management for producers and processors.